Calvin Chester Cordes

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Calvin Chester Cordes, who departed this life on January 19th, 2025, at the VA Hospice Facility in Prescott, Arizona. Cal was born on December 15th, 1926 at the old Mercy Hospital on Grove Avenue in Prescott, the current site of Prescott College. He was raised atthe Cordes Station on the old Black Canyon Highway. After his parents retired to Wickenburg in 1938, Cal when to junior high school and high school in Wickenburg, graduating from Wickenburg High School in 1945. In the spring of 1945 Cal got a letter from Franklin Roosevelt to report to the army on July 1st, 1945. He spent 18 months in the military with nine of those months being spent in Korea. He was honorably discharged in February of 1947. Cal then went to Colorado State Teacher's College at Greeley, Colorado on the G-I Bill. He played basketball while double majoring in physical education and industrial arts. After graduating from college in 1952, he began his teaching and coaching career in Nebraska. He would spend seven years in Nebraska before moving back to Arizona, the reason being a warmer climate. The fall of 1959 saw Cal being hired as a driver's education instructor and freshmen football coach at Prescott High School. Later that same year he would be named the head baseball coach. Cal would coach and teach for 27 years in the Prescott School District before retiring in 1987. Cal would do many things in retirement including horseshoe pitching, bowling, fishing, going to Badger football, basketball, baseball, and softball games. If there was sporting event in the area, Cal would likely be in attendance. He and his Wife, Dorothy, went on many trips with their fifth wheel trailer. Cal's Wife, Dorothy, would pre-decease him in 2008. Also, two of Cal's, step children would also predecease him. Step-Son Phil and Step-Daughter Kris. Survivors include Son, Kelly Cordes, Step-Son Gary Wykoff, and Step Daughter Kay Wykoff. Cal is also survived by 13 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren. Cal was the ultimate Badger sports fan, donating time and money to Badger sports. He and his Wife, Dorothy attended for many years the American Lutheran Church. Cal will always be remembered for his dedication to Badger athletics and his lifelong service to others. There will be a celebration of live event on Saturday, March 29th, at 1:00 pm at the Prescott High School Ruth Street Theatre. All are invited. KYCA radio is planning to stream and record the event. Donations in the name of Cal Cordes can be made out to the PHS athletic fund.

Calvin Chester Cordes

December 15, 1926 - January 19, 2025